John Pearson, III

John Pearson III saved Jeremy Retsky from drowning, Anahola, Hawaii, November 13, 2020. Swimming just after sunset in Anahola Bay, Retsky, 18, was swept by a current farther out into water over his head. Pearson, 18, a recent high school graduate, was near the shore when he realized Retsky was in danger of drowning. As darkness fell, Pearson waded out and then swam to reach Retsky. Retsky panicked and grabbed onto Pearson, forcing him under the surface repeatedly. Pearson separated himself from Retsky and, as waves crashed down on them, told him to stay calm and tread water or they would both drown. He stayed with Retsky as the current pulled them out farther and then parallel to the beach while they conserved energy. Pearson periodically submerged himself, allowing Retsky to grab his shoulders, keep his head above water, rest, and catch his breath. After about 10 minutes, the current swept Pearson onto a sandbar, where he could barely touch bottom, while Retsky remained slightly farther out. Pearson swam out to Retsky, grabbed him by an arm and swam back with him to the sandbar. He submerged, touching bottom, then held onto Retsky’s arm as Retsky lay on his back and dragged him into shallower water then walked him onto the beach. Retsky was exhausted and could barely stand. Pearson was tired but not injured. An off-duty paramedic examined both men and treated Pearson for scratches on his back and chest inflicted by Retsky, but neither required further treatment.